Contractor Tips Blog

Jul
3

Creating The Perfect Paver Patio

Posted in Paver Driveways

If you are considering building a new patio for your front or back yard, consider using pavers to create a beautiful outside area. Pavers are an excellent material choice for home patios, with low maintenance requirements and high durability. In addition, pavers come in a wide variety of sizes, colors and materials, making them highly versatile for home décor. 

Choosing The Right Patio Pavers

The most important aspect of creating a beautiful patio with pavers is choosing the right paving stones for the job. Pavers come in many types, including formed concrete, brick and natural stone pavers. Almost any paver can be used to build your patio; however, you want to choose the material, color and shapes that will best accent your landscaping and home. 

  • Cement pavers. Cement pavers, especially those that are stamped, are an affordable option for creating a patio. However, they will not have the same durability as many of the natural stone choices.
     
  • Brick pavers. Brick is also a classic option to make a nice patio for your home. Like cement, they are fairly affordable, yet will not necessarily last as long as some natural stone pavers.
     
  • Natural stone pavers. For a patio that can last for decades with a beautiful, natural appeal, stone pavers are the best choice. Tumbled marble or travertine pavers are perfect choices for patios, both with high durability and aesthetic qualities. 

Although it is possible to build a paver patio on your own, having a professional paver company design and install your patio can ensure that it is done exactly the way you envision. Let the experts do the hard work of putting your new patio together, then pull out your patio furniture and enjoy the rest of the summer on your stylish new paver patio! 

Posted on behalf of Tri-County Pavers & Design Corp.

Jul
3

Protect Your Wireless Device In Style

Wireless devices have become a part of our daily lives, making the idea of going anywhere without one unthinkable to many people. Smartphones make it possible to stay in touch with friends and family on the go, as well as conduct business or just entertain yourself while sitting in a waiting room. To keep these fantastic devices protected from damage, there are countless phone cases and phone covers that will do the job. There’s no need for these cases to be boring, though. 

Stylish Phone Case Options

The cell phone has become more than just an electronic device for many people; it is a part of their personal style and preference. Cases protect these expensive hand-held phones from wear, water damage and even breakage by insulating the fragile exterior. While these cases have always come in a variety of colors, there are many more options to choose from beyond just color. 

  • Bling. Make your device sparkle with crystal covers that add bling to your phone. Choose from a wide variety of shiny covers which range in colors from purple to diamond.
     
  • Cause. Want to show your support for your favorite cause? Get a case that lets everyone know where you stand on important issues and causes.
     
  • Personal style. If camo is your personal style, then your phone should reflect that style. Cases come in camo, animal print or floral, whatever your personal style may be.
     
  • Professional. Your case does not need to be flashy; there are many beautiful cases which are also professional and sleek, making them perfect for those wanting to display a professional image. 

Your phone needs protection to make it last; a quality case can give your phone the protection it needs while reflecting your personal tastes. Get one for all the different sides of your life, from work to play.

Posted on behalf of Cellairis

Jul
3

Does Your Smartphone Need Some TLC?

Smartphones have become one of the most used devices of our time, keeping people connected wherever they go. Unfortunately, they are also expensive, costing hundreds of dollars to replace when they are damaged. Luckily, due to the large demand for these devices, there are now ways to preserve many of these phones with affordable cell phone repairs which can make them last much longer before they need to be replaced. 

Types Of Smartphone Repairs

Like all types of electronics, there are times when it is better just to replace the smartphone than to spend hundreds of dollars on repairing them. However, there are many smaller issues that can be quickly and easily fixed, making the phone just like new again. Before trading in or tossing out your phone, consider these repairs that can be made. 

–        Front glass. On many iPhones, the front glass can become scratched or cracked, making it hard to use. This glass can be repaired or replaced by experienced technicians, making the phone look like new again.

–        Water damage. Water is the enemy of most cell phones. Countless phones have been accidentally exposed to water, then thrown away. Often these phones can be repaired, costing much less than replacement.

–        LCD damage. If the LCD component is malfunctioning on a phone like an iPhone or Samsung Galaxy, it can often be repaired quickly without creating the need for expensive replacement of the device.

–        Battery replacement. Many times when a phone dies, it is just in need of a battery replacement. Before spending the money to replace it, have an expert check to see if it just needs a new battery. 

Next time your smartphone has outer damage or is not working properly, call a local smartphone repair company to see if it can be repaired. If not, some offer to buy used phones, working or not, and can also give you a good deal on replacement phones if yours cannot be repaired.

Posted on behalf of iDeviceMD

Jul
3

Having Conveyor Belt Problems?

Conveyor belts are used in many applications, from retail to manufacturing. These convenient devices are so much a part of most operations that it would be hard to imagine having to do the job without them. So, when a belt goes down, it can make work come to a standstill, costing money in labor and production. Finding the problem and getting it fixed fast is crucial in almost any business. 

Find An Experienced Conveyor Belt Service Company

When it comes to conveyor belts, you need a service company who knows these machines inside and out. An experienced outfit should be able to help you troubleshoot the problem quickly, then get it fixed in as little time as possible. If conveyor belts are an integral part of your business, find a reliable service company and make sure to keep them on speed dial. They should offer: 

  • Troubleshooting. The first step in a mechanical breakdown is finding the problem. An experienced conveyor belt service technician can often troubleshoot many problems right over the phone.
     
  • Repair. You need a company who has the parts and expertise to repair all types of conveyor belts, fast and efficiently. Every hour a belt is down can cost many businesses money in production.
     
  • Replacement. You want a company who can repair or replace your conveyor belts when necessary. Make sure the company you choose can handle all your conveyor belt needs. 

Get up and running with limited delay the next time your conveyor belt is giving your production floor problems. Find an experienced conveyor belt service, repair and replacement company who will be there when you need them to keep everything moving down the line.

Posted on behalf of The King Group, Inc.

Jul
3

Advantages Of Steel Staircases In Commercial Construction

Posted in Metal Stairs

There are special considerations when building staircases for commercial use. The design and material must be functional, durable and affordable, which is why steel staircases are often the best choice. There are several advantages of using steel stair construction versus other options for stairs in commercial settings. Some of those advantages include: 

  • Strength. Steel can outlast most materials and handle the heavy loads required in commercial applications. When it comes to strength in construction, nothing can beat steel.
     
  • Customization. When stairs must be custom designed for an existing building or for function, an experienced steel fabrication contractor can build stairs from steel to meet any need. From wide steps to small spiral staircases, steel can be formed into whatever shape or size that is needed.
     
  • Durability. One of the main considerations in any commercial construction project is ensuring durability. Steel can last for decades, making it an excellent investment for staircases and other structures.
     
  • Maintenance. Steel is easy to maintain, with very little needing to be done in order to keep it functioning and looking great for years. With high resistance in all types of weather and temperatures, it needs little more than a hose or mop to keep clean.
     
  • Installation. Steel staircases can be quickly installed by a professional contractor. From customized stairs to turnkey cases, high quality steel staircases fabricators can have the job done to keep construction projects on schedule. 

There are few materials which are as reliable as steel. For your next commercial construction projects, consider using steel staircases that will be highly functional, durable and look great for many years to come.

Posted on behalf of LCG Welding, LLC

Jul
3

5 Signs It May Be Time To Replace Your Shingled Roof

Posted in Roofing

If your home’s shingled roof is fifteen years old or older, it is time to start keeping an eye out for signs that it’s time to start considering replacement. Many roofs can last twenty years or longer, depending on how well they are maintained and the weather conditions they have endured. Still, it’s not age that will tell you whether your roof needs to be replaced; it’s the signs of damage or degradation that you should be aware of when evaluating the life left in your roof. Here are five common signs that it may be time to replace that old roof. 

  1. Curling. If you have shingles that are curling or buckling, it may be time for a new roof, or at minimum, some shingle repair. Your shingles should lie flat against the roof; otherwise water can get underneath and leak into your home.
     
  2. Rotting. Rotting spots on your roof is a severe danger sign that you may need a new roof and could have even more damage in your rafters and house structure.
     
  3. Bald shingles. If you notice bald spots on your shingles where the granules have been worn or fallen off, it may be time for a new roof. These unprotected shingles can become brittle and fragile, needing replacement as soon as possible.
     
  4. Blistering. Blisters on your shingles can be a sign of water underneath your shingles. If water is getting trapped underneath, it’s only a matter of time before you have leaks into your home.
     
  5. Algae. Black stains from algae and moss growth can be signs that you may have damaged shingles. If the moss has been allowed to grow unchecked for years on end, the moss may have already grown into the shingles, causing extensive damage. 

The best way to know for sure whether you need a new roof is to call your local roofers for a roof inspection. They can tell you whether you just need minor roof repairs, or a full roof replacement.

Posted on behalf of Atwood Home Builders

Jul
3

4 Great Uses For Golf Carts

Posted in Golf Carts

You don’t need to play golf in order to find great uses for a golf cart. More and more, these handy little vehicles are being used in a variety of commercial and residential applications which have nothing to do with the game of golf. Whether you own a business or are looking for a convenient way to get around your property or neighborhood, a golf cart may be an affordable option. Here are four great ways that people are using golf carts

  1. Camping. Love camping? A golf cart can be the ultimate camping accessory. Many people enjoy having the freedom to move around the campground quickly in their own personal golf cart, visiting friends, seeing the sights or just making a trip to the campground store.
     
  2. Personal property. For those with larger pieces of land, a golf cart can be a great way to get from one area to another. Pack up tools or another equipment and head to the other side of your property on a utility cart.
     
  3. Businesses. Family fun parks, campgrounds, retirement communities and parks all use golf carts as an easy way to get around their property.
     
  4. Events. For big parties or events, golf carts are a great way to transport guests from the parking lot to the main event area. Weddings, company picnics and many other events are made more enjoyable when guests can hitch a ride. 

Golf carts come in a wide variety of sizes and models, with both gas and electric models available. For the ultimate accessory for your home, business or recreational needs, check out the new and used golf carts that are available at your local golf cart dealer.

Posted on behalf of Action Specialty Carts

Jul
3

Relax And Rent A Golf Cart This Summer!

Posted in Golf Carts

Nothing can detract from a fun event or vacation more than sore feet, knees and legs. It’s hard to enjoy anything when you need continuously to be on your feet, walking miles upon miles throughout the day. For anyone that has small children in tow, physical restrictions or just doesn’t enjoy walking long distances, golf cart rentals for your next outdoor vacation or event may be the perfect way to avoid the pain while enjoying all the fun.  

Summer Events For Golf Cart Rentals

There are many times during the summer when having a golf cart handy can make the day more enjoyable. There is no need to play through the pain when you can just rent a golf cart to save your feet from walking from point A to point B all day long. Here are some great ideas on when to rent a golf cart. 

  • Weddings. If you are planning an outdoor wedding where guests will need to walk, consider renting a golf cart for your guests. Your older family members will appreciate the lift!
     
  • Camping trips. A week at a campground can become painful by day three or four when you are on your feet from morning until night. Rent a cart to scoot you around the campground so you can enjoy your trip.
     
  • Recreation. Golf carts are great for going out trap shooting, to sporting events and yes, even golfing! Make that next day out more relaxing by renting a golf cart to get you around throughout the day. 

Make all your summer events more fun with less pain by renting a golf cart. It is worth the investment to be able to enjoy the day without worrying about feet blisters, swollen knees or tired toddlers!

Posted on behalf of Top Dog Golf Carts, LLC

Jun
3

High Density Polyethylene

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) is a polyethylene thermoplastic made from petroleum. HDPE is one of many types of polymer products and is used in the production of many popular items including plastic bottles, plastic lumber, and corrosion resistant piping. High density polyethylene can withstand high temperatures, and it is a very hard product. High density polyethylene was first experimented with in the 1930s during World War II. It was used in the application of high frequency radar cables during the war, and because of its success it gave way to commercial production. Polyethylene is one of the most widely uses plastics world wide, with production in the billions of pounds each year. 

There are many advantages of high density polyethylene. It is impact and wear resistant, it is flexible, and it can have a very high elongation before breaking. Because of these properties it is a favorite choice when wrapping and shipping food. Plastic milk jugs are one of the most common items produced from high density polyethylene. The product can sustain cold temperatures, and high density polyethylene lends itself particularly well to blow molding for forming milk jugs. 

For companies that are in the business of manufacturing plastic bottles, piping, or plastic lumber it is important to find a reliable source for purchasing high density polyethylene. Because HDPE is an industrial product, it must be bought in bulk from reliable companies with the license to manufacture and sell it. High density polyethylene is a product that is needed and used world wide, therefore pricing can be very competitive. By shopping around and doing your research, you can find the most reputable and budget friendly source. 

Posted on behalf of The King Group, Inc.

Jun
3

Home Siding Replacement

Posted in Siding

The siding of the home serves as the main barrier between your home and the weather. Elements such as rain, snow, wind, and temperature changes can have an effect on the inside temperature and humidity within your house. When the siding on your home has been damaged or is simply in need of replacement due to wearing down from age, it is important to have it replaced in a timely manner. Worn down siding can have a negative impact on the appearance of your home, it can decrease your home’s efficiency, and it can leave it susceptible to damage from weather elements. 

There are different options when it comes to replacing the siding on your home. If you are replacing the siding on the entire house, you have the option of changing the color. Of course you want to choose a color that works within your home owners association guidelines, but choosing a new color can add a new appeal to your home. You can also choose a different siding material when replacing the siding. Different materials can give your home a slightly different look. Replacing aluminum siding with more durable, energy efficient vinyl siding can add value to your home. Vinyl siding comes in a variety of colors and it holds its color for a longer period of time. Because there is no painting required for maintenance, there is little involved to keep it looking nice. 

Finding a company with a solid reputation for customer service and quality siding replacement is essential to making your home improvement a valuable investment. Siding can look great and protect your home, making your investment worthwhile and beautiful.

 Posted on behalf of Atwood Home Builders

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